Conventional fuels, power and energy sources are not without their problems. Emissions from coal, petroleum and other fossil fuels are the driving force behind climate change. The growing demand for more sustainable alternatives has created nothing short of a renewable-energy boom, one that will no doubt play an important role in powering a brighter, greener and more sustainable future.
Tips for Saving Energy
For households as well as business and property owners who have concerns about the natural environment or who are simply interested in lowering the cost of their utilities, the first step towards improving energy efficiency is to cut back on waste. Reduced consumption is an important part of the solution, one that can help to shrink carbon footprints, reduce emissions and lower electricity bills and fuel costs
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Creating a More Energy-efficient Household
A typical household wastes a surprising amount of energy. Upgrading to high-efficiency LED lighting fixtures, investing in a smart-thermostat or other energy-efficient HVAC equipment or replacing outdated windows or insulation can all make quite a difference.
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Curbing Energy Use in the Workplace
While even a smaller business will typically use far more energy than a home or residential property, efforts to improve the overall energy-efficiency of the environment or daily operations can have a far greater impact. Assessing various aspects of workflow or determining ways to improve the efficiency of a specific process or operation may go a long way towards lowering energy use.
Creating a Sustainable Lifestyle
Renovations and property upgrades are far from the only way to make use of renewable energy. The grid that supplies power to both residential and commercial property often delivers electricity that was generated by burning coal, although a growing number of wind farms, solar-power plants and other renewable power sources are beginning to provide a cleaner and more sustainable alternative.
A growing number of utility providers allow their clients to choose where their power is coming from. Switching to a different utility provider is an option that home and property owners may wish to consider.
Conventional vehicles that are powered by an internal combustion engine also produce significant qualities of CO2 and other emissions. An electric or hybrid-electric vehicle can allow individuals to further shrink their carbon footprint. Upgrading to a more fuel-efficient vehicle, carpooling or using mass-transit options to get around can be important efforts when it comes to building a sustainable future.
Minimizing HVAC Costs
Heating and cooling costs can often be substantial, especially for older homes and properties. Upgrading outdated HVAC equipment or investing in an energy-efficient climate control system is often worth the expense. Newer model systems, equipment and appliances may even be able to pay for themselves by lowering utility costs over time.
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Heating
Maximizing sun exposure during the day and taking steps to minimize unwanted heat loss help to keep heating costs out of hand. The use of a portable space heater can help to keep specific rooms and areas warm and comfortable without wasting as much energy. Wearing a sweater or other warm clothing can also make it easier to stay comfortable without running the heater or furnace.
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Cooling
Energy-efficient cooling can be a little trickier. Fans that provide air circulation are a great way to cool off without running the AC. Window shades and even exterior landscaping designs that help to minimize direct sun exposure can also make a difference.
Home and Commercial Solar Installations
Property owners who are serious about renewable energy would do well to consider the many advantages that a commercial or home solar installation is able to provide. The ability to create green, sustainable power on-site makes it possible to further reduce or even outright eliminate a monthly utility bill.
Current generation solar options and installations offer superior performance for less overall cost and many property owners may be surprised to learn just how much solar panels are. The right solar-electric setup can be a real asset for those who are serious about their commitment to renewable energy.
Sustainability is of paramount importance for building a brighter and more secure future. Finding ways to save energy can allow home and property owners to do their part while lowering their monthly utility bills.
Interesting related article: “What is Renewable Energy?”